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Saturday, December 15, 2012

Joseph, the Stepfather of Jesus

lds.org

Mary the mother of Jesus is revered in Christianity, particularly in Catholicism. She was "highly favoured" and "blessed . . . among women" (Luke 1:28, 30). But we seldom talk about her husband, Joseph. He too must have been highly favored and blessed among men to have been given the honor of raising Jesus.

Joseph was a "just man" and not spiteful: when he learned of Mary's pregnancy, he did not publicize it, but wished to divorce her privately (Matthew 1:19 footnote b). He was also very unselfish toward Mary during her pregnancy (Matthew 1:25).

Joseph was obedient to the Lord, as shown when he followed angels' commands to still marry Mary (Matthew 1:20-24) and flee to Nazareth to protect little Jesus from King Herod (Matthew 2:13-15). Joseph served as young Jesus's example of a righteous husband and father. The Bible Dictionary states, "Joseph was naturally regarded in Nazareth as [Jesus's] father, and the holy child treated him as such (Luke 2:48, 51)" (see also Matthew 13:55, Mark 6:3). It only seems logical that, knowing the influence a father has on his son and all the duties that come with fatherhood, Heavenly Father prepared Joseph for this calling just as He prepared Mary for hers.

I think the Primary song "When Joseph Went to Bethlehem" describes Joseph best:

I think there at the busy inn that he was meek and mild

And awed to be the guardian of Mary's sacred child.

Perhaps all through the chilly hours he smoothed the swaddling bands,

And Jesus felt the quiet strength of Joseph's gentle hands.

And close beside the manger bed, he dimmed the lantern's lightAnd held the little Jesus close upon that holy night.